Bricklayers and Stonemasons
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a bricklayer or stonemason, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or GED; and
- complete an apprenticeship program.
Education after high school
Most bricklayers and stonemasons learn skills through apprenticeship training programs. Union and non-union apprenticeship programs are available. Admission to apprenticeship programs is competitive. To apply for an apprenticeship, you must:
- have a high school diploma or GED;
- be at least 18 years old; and
- be in good physical condition.
Apprenticeship programs usually consist of four years of on-the-job training. You are paid for the time you spend on the job. In addition, each year you receive at least 144 hours of classroom training.You can also get training at professional-technical schools or two-year colleges. These programs take two to four years to complete.
On-the-job training
Some bricklayers and stonemasons learn their skills informally on the job. In this case, you work as a helper and learn skills from an experienced worker. On-the-job training lasts for several years.
Military training
Some branches of the military train people to be construction specialists. Training lasts five to eight weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.
If you receive this type of training in the military, you may earn credit for previous work experience when you enter a civilian apprenticeship program.
Apprenticeship
View the recent 1 apprenticeship(s) for this occupation.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
Helpful High School Courses
You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate. You should consider taking Algebra and Geometry as your math courses and Chemistry and Physics as your science courses.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Blueprint Reading
- Carpentry
- Construction
- Drafting
- Industrial Arts
- Physical Education
Many bricklayers and stonemasons are self-employed. If you want to run your own business some day, you should consider taking these courses as well:
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
- Introduction to Business
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
